Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder versus Oppositional Defiant Disorder should be understood as reactive versus proactive aggression, respectively

Perspective article on why Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) versus Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) should be understood as reactive versus proactive aggression, respectively. Such a perspective will narrow the gap between research and diagnostic definitions/clinical practice. Also, a lot of research efforts could be saved by building on established phenomena in this way, as well as moving forward the DSM-5/ICD-11 debate on these disorders. Most importantly, this recognition of DMDD and ODD as reactive versus proactive aggression could make us take giant leaps in developing appropriate treatments for these children.